Japan’s Princess Akiko of Mikasa arrived in Bhutan on an official visit to commemorate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. During her visit, she was received with traditional royal honors at the Tashichho Dzong in Thimphu, where she held a private audience with King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Queen Jetsun Pema.
The visit highlights four decades of strong bilateral cooperation, cultural exchange, and development assistance between Japan and the Himalayan Kingdom. As part of her itinerary, Princess Akiko engaged in cultural events, met with local dignitaries, and visited key developmental and heritage sites supported through Japanese-funded initiatives. Both nations expressed a mutual commitment to further strengthening diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people ties in the years ahead.